Tyrod Taylor to start for Jets against Buccaneers, a chance to spark stalled season

New York — The Jets will start Tyrod Taylor at quarterback on Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, after coach Aaron Glenn announced that starter Justin Fields will miss the game with a concussion.

Taylor, 36, will make his first Jets start after a career that has included stints with the Bills, Browns, Chargers, Texans and Giants. He was the quarterback for the Bills on the final day of the 2015 regular season in Buffalo, a day when the temperature hovered around 24 degrees as Buffalo beat the Jets 22-17. Taylor finished with 182 passing yards and a rushing touchdown, a performance that helped end New York’s playoff hopes.

Ten years later, Taylor's career has included stops with the Browns, Chargers, Texans and Giants before arriving with the Jets in 2024. His arrival gives New York a veteran option who has been through multiple offensive systems and can help manage the game in a week-to-week schedule.

Jets coach Aaron Glenn said Wednesday that Fields would miss the game, creating an opening for Taylor to run the offense against a Buccaneers defense that will test his ability to execute plays, manage the clock and push the ball downfield when opportunities arise.

The Jets are counting on Taylor to stabilize the position as they search for a spark after a season that has included inconsistent quarterback play and injuries. His experience and improvisational ability could help offset any rust, provided the line can protect him and the receivers can win against a competitive Tampa Bay pass rush.

Regardless of the outcome, Taylor's start marks a notable moment in a season that has already featured upheaval at quarterback. For Jets fans, the veteran signal-caller's return offers a reminder that the club has a trusted option with playoff history who can provide a steadying hand as they pursue a late-season push.